US congressman questions Honduras’ political direction and urges suspension of ruling party’s candidacy

US Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar expressed concern about the political direction Honduras is taking, warning of the possible consolidation of an ideological model akin to so-called 21st-century socialism. In this context, she urged Honduran citizens to reject the presidential candidacy of Rixi Moncada, of the Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE), in the elections scheduled for November 2025.

Analysis of Honduras’ geopolitical partnerships

During her remarks in Washington, Salazar criticized what she views as an effort by the leading party in Honduras to emulate a model influenced by the administrations of Cuba and Venezuela. The lawmaker claims that President Xiomara Castro and her associate and intended political heir, Rixi Moncada, are advancing an agenda of authoritarianism, supported by partnerships with governments she labeled as “corrupt and unsuccessful.”

In addition, the Republican congresswoman presented a bill before the US Congress aimed at restricting entry into US territory for candidates participating in electoral processes considered corrupt. This measure, although not specifically targeted, is part of a critical stance toward political actors who, according to Salazar, compromise the democratic stability of the region.

Appeal to residents and community responses

The lawmaker urged the people of Honduras to take an active role in the national elections scheduled for November 30, 2025. According to her, the main goal is to “overcome socialism” at the ballot box and stop Honduras from further transitioning towards an ideology that she believes could endanger the essence of representative democracy. She suggested the strategy of rallying the opposition behind a unified candidate capable of effectively contesting the party currently in power.

The remarks have captured the attention of opposition groups in Honduras, who have been attempting to create a coalition to contest the Libre party for months. In the nation, Salazar’s address is perceived by certain individuals as a clear endorsement of the opposition, whereas the administration views these remarks as proof of meddling from abroad.

Division in elections and the political landscape

Rixi Moncada was recently confirmed as the LIBRE presidential candidate after winning the party’s primary elections by a landslide.

Her candidacy comes at a time of high political polarization, criticism of the government’s performance, and tensions over the concentration of power in the executive branch. The ruling party is seeking to remain in power for a second consecutive term, which has raised concerns among social, political, and business sectors.

Among the main points of debate are the direction of Honduran foreign policy, the country’s closeness to governments not aligned with Washington, and allegations of authoritarian practices within the state apparatus.

A political landscape under international pressure

The Honduran electoral scenario is unfolding under the scrutiny of international actors who, as in the case of Congresswoman Salazar, are showing growing concern about the country’s institutional drift. These external warnings coincide with a period of reorganization of the opposition, which is seeking to unite against a consolidated pro-government candidate.

As the official campaign draws near, the nation confronts the challenge of maintaining a competitive, transparent, and uninterrupted electoral procedure within a context where ideological, geopolitical, and societal pressures are impacting democratic stability and institutional equilibrium.